Verdict from 6.5 hours of research from the internet
6 reasons to buy
- The Ariel 18 seemed to be sturdier compared to the previous version, a user observed.
- Many wearers were happy that the Ariel 18 did not require a break-in period.
- A lot of customers expressed their approval of the shoe’s many width options.
- The shoe was very comfortable to wear even for extended periods of time, according to some buyers.
- The broader toe box was an excellent improvement in the shoe, said a reviewer.
- The Brooks Ariel 18 was effective in reducing overpronation, as agreed upon by numerous consumers.
3 reasons not to buy
- A few wearers thought the Ariel 18 had small sizing.
- Some users described the shoe as heavy.
- The Brooks Ariel 18 was an expensive shoe, a buyer remarked.
Bottom line
According to a number of users, they were satisfied with the comfort and support provided by the Brooks Ariel 18. Several consumers also attested the noticeable improvements the shoe presented versus its predecessor. When it comes to motion-control road running shoes, the Brooks Ariel 18 is a worthy choice for many overpronators.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 88/100 by Plantar Fasciitis Resource
User reviews:
- 4.5/5 by Amazon UK (+200)
- 4.3/5 by Sun and Ski (+200)
- 4.4/5 by Amazon (+100)
- 4.9/5 by SportsShoes (10)
- 4.7/5 by Holabird Sports (9)
- 4.6/5 by Fleet Feet (9)
- The newest edition of the Brooks Ariel gives a couple of updates in the design and structural components. This is to equip the runner with even more support and cushioning than ever before. As the feminine counterpart of the Brooks Beast 18, the Ariel 18 is built for women, specifically those who are overpronators or those who are looking for more stability. With its versatile construction, the Ariel 18 could be used both as a lifestyle and active wear.
- The new air mesh upper is designed to wrap the foot firmly for a lesser risk of hot spots. The Ariel 18 features the addition of no-sew overlays that produce comfortable midfoot support. Aside from these, the upper also permits the wearer with a roomier toe box, a more structured saddle, and an external heel counter for enhanced stability.
- Meanwhile, the sole unit remains to be the tandem of Super DNA midsole and HPR Plus outsole same as that of the Brooks Addiction 13, one of Brooks best motion stability running shoe. This is for a combination of stability and support that produces a long-lasting performance.
Unlike the previous version, the Brooks Ariel 18 has a fit that is true-to-size. Runners of all foot volumes will be able to wear the shoe comfortably, thanks to the variety of width options that range from medium, wide, and extra-wide. The Ariel 18 also forms a medium midfoot and heel structure, as well as a moderate toe box height.
A two-part outsole makes up the bottom of the Ariel 18. In the forefoot is the HPR Green, an environment-friendly, dispersed silica that offers durability and skid-resistant traction in any running condition or surface. The qualities of the HPR Green allow an efficient toe-off.
A set of flex grooves, called the Flextra, is found in the forefoot. These indentations are customized in each model for tailored flexibility that is according to the runner’s gender and weight.
Meanwhile, the midfoot and rearfoot portions are comprised of HPR Plus, the classic outsole material from the brand. Compared to HPR Green, the HPR Plus is even more sturdy, and it has a high abrasion-resistance, thus preventing early wear and tear.
Brooks takes their standard DNA cushioning material and upgrades it to Super DNA, which is now present in the Ariel 18. The Super DNA adds 25% more cushioning compared to the earlier versions. It is similar to the BioMoGo DNA material in that it is also biodegradable.
Because the Ariel 18 is a motion-control shoe, the midsole includes the Extended Progressive Diagonal Roll Bar (PDRB), a unit of triple-density BioMoGo foam that aims to reduce excess pronation by means of customized cushioning and stability.
The Extended PDRB is aided by the MC Pod Configuration, a stabilizing midsole layout that balances the shoe for an efficient heel-to-toe transition. In addition to this, the Caterpillar Crash Pad enhances the effects of the MC Pod by flexing with the foot and providing customized cushioning.
In the midfoot lies the DRB Accel, a shank-like thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) unit that equips the Ariel 18 with torsional rigidity. It improves support in the area while allowing the rest of the foot to move independently.
To complement the Flextra in the outsole, the midsole has Omega flex grooves, which augments the shoe’s litheness but not at the expense of cushioning.
The all-new engineered mesh of the Ariel 18 intends to bring increased breathability and a more adaptable fit. It is joined together with a 3D-printed midfoot saddle that secures the foot for easy mobility.
A set of no-sew overlays assist the midfoot saddle in bringing a support structure to keep the foot in place.
The upper is stitched using Strobel lasting to a full-length Cushsole S-257, a support component that delivers cushioning and flexibility for an all-around comfortable in-shoe feel.
Size and fit
Same sizing as Brooks Ariel 20.
How Ariel 18 compares
